There is a song of hope that Ghana sings to us, a song of hope and healing. My stay in the country exposed me to this melody that is undefiled. It’s like Ghana’s musical instruments were tuned in heaven by special angels. They narrate a story that calls the diaspora home. Each string of the Kora plays like that of Bob Marley’s guitar, and the beat of the Kpanlogo drum translates in English as “Go on, Go on.”
With matchless musical instruments, we can safely conclude that Ghana loves music. She loves the vibrant and jubilant spirit that it brings along with it. Like other African nations, this soulful people digs deep into the essence of musical rhythm.
Ghana knows that music requires instruments, and so she has her inventory full of them. Long before we had electronic equipment, manual instruments were used to create melody. Some of these include the harps and drums. From Biblical days, we hear about African people using the drum as a means of expression and praise.
If you want to get closer to Ghana, get closer to her music. Her rich musical heritage is deeply rooted in her melody making tools, each carrying centuries of history and cultural significance. For diasporans seeking an immersive experience, exploring these instruments offers a unique window into the country’s vibrant melodies.
Let’s look at some of these instruments and their significance in Ghanaian music and traditions.
The Talking Drum: A Language of Rhythm
The talking drum, known locally as dondo or atumpan, is one of the most famous of Ghana’s musical instruments. It has a hourglass shape and adjustable strings that allows it to mimic the tonal patterns of human speech, which makes it a good tool for storytelling and communication.
If you are a tourist who would love to learn to play the talking drum, there are places you can do this. You can consult a cultural centers like the National Theatre in Accra or through workshops offered in traditional villages. If you are lucky enough, you might also experience them at one of Ghana’s street performances.
The Kora: Strings of Serenity
Though the Kora is more commonly associated with neighboring West African countries, the kora is also celebrated in Ghana’s northern regions. This 21-string lute-like instrument produces soothing, harp-like melodies. Visitors to areas like Tamale can witness kora performances and even try their hand at playing it under the guidance of skilled musicians. The kora’s intricate design and serene sound make it a highlight for music enthusiasts.
The Xylophone: Melodic Percussion
This is one of the most unique when it comes Ghana’s musical instruments. It’s a staple of traditional music in the northern regions. It is made from wooden slats and resonating gourds, the gyil produces rich, percussive tones that are central to local ceremonies and celebrations. Visiting tourists can visit music workshops in towns like Wa or Bolgatanga to learn the basics of playing the gyil and understand its cultural importance.
The Seperewa: Ghana’s Harp-Lute
The seperewa is a stringed instrument native to the Akan people of Ghana. Its design and sound resemble a small harp. When story telling time comes around, it is often used as part of the experience. You will also see it played during cultural songs. Visitors to the Ashanti Region can explore the seperewa through hands-on lessons at cultural heritage sites. Playing the seperewa offers tourists a rare opportunity to engage with one of Ghana’s lesser-known but deeply cherished instruments.
Drumming Workshops: A Group Experience
You won’t have a musical experience in Ghana without drumming. This is because drumming is at the heart of Ghana’s musical experience and is most popular among Ghana’s musical instruments. Participating in a drumming workshop is an unforgettable experience. Tourists can join group sessions in cities like Accra, Kumasi, or Cape Coast, where instructors teach the rhythms of traditional drums like the kpanlogo and djembe. Workshops like these will sometimes include dancing which will create a lively and interactive environment that captures the essence of Ghanaian celebrations.
Preserving Traditions Through Ghana's Musical instruments
Ghana’s musical instruments are more than just tools for making music; they are vessels of cultural heritage and storytelling. By engaging with these instruments, tourists not only enjoy a hands-on experience but also contribute to preserving and appreciating Ghana’s musical traditions. Whether you’re a seasoned musician or a curious traveler, Ghana’s musical instruments offer an enriching journey into the soul of its culture.
Learning to play these instruments provides a unique way to connect with Ghana’s rich history and diverse communities. The rhythms of the djembe or the melodies of the seperewa brings up stories of the wisdom of our ancestors, and of the spirit of resilience. Workshops and live performances allow visitors to immerse themselves in the authentic sounds of Ghana, forging deeper connections with its people and traditions.
Where to Start Your Musical Journey
To begin your hands-on experience with Ghana’s musical instruments, consider visiting cultural centers, music schools, or local festivals. Popular destinations include the W.E.B. Du Bois Center in Accra, the Centre for National Culture in Kumasi, and traditional villages in the Northern Region. These venues provide opportunities to learn, play, and connect with Ghana’s timeless musical traditions, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to the country’s vibrant culture.
In Conclusion
This blog has taught us that music in Ghana goes far beyond mere entertainment. It is a tool that connects the past and the present with a bridge to the future. Ghana has a way of inspiring the world with its unique instruments, beautiful performances and modern music styles.
If you are in the diaspora, come and connect with Ghana’s rich culture and come celebrate the enduring spirit of Africa. Whether through the beats of the drum, the melodies of the seperewa, or the rhythms of Highlife, Ghana’s music remains a testament to the resilience and creativity of its people.
